Social Security Card

F-1 & J-1

A Social Security number (SSN) is issued to track earnings over a worker’s lifetime. Students holding F-1 and J-1 status who are employed in the U.S. must apply for a Social Security number. In order to issue a Social Security number, the Social Security Administration requires evidence that you are eligible to work in the U.S., that you are a full-time student, and that you have received a formal offer of on-campus employment, or have been authorized for off-campus employment through Curricular Practical Training, Optional Practical Training, or Academic Training.

A Social Security number is not required to obtain a driver’s license, cell phone, credit card, insurance, admission to an academic institution or other “non-work” reasons. The Social Security Administration must also verify your immigration documents and status with Immigration before issuing the Social Security number.

DOCUMENTS NEEDED

• I-94 Copy
• Passport and Visa
• SEVIS I-20 or DS-2019
• Letter from Designated School Official (F-1) or Responsible Officer (J-1) stating you are authorized to work on campus AND are attending full-time.
• Letter from on-campus supervisor identifying the on-campus employer and stating nature of employment you are engaged in, or have secured.

IDENTITY DOCUMENTS

• If the identity document does not have a picture it must show, at least, the student’s name and age OR student’s name and date of birth.
• The identity document may not be the same document used to establish age.
• The U.S. Visa or the student’s passport may be used as an identity document.

SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION WILL ONLY ACCEPT ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS OR CERTIFIED COPIES OF DOCUMENTS.

Social Security Administration
2805 South Charles Blvd.
Greenville, NC 27858

Telephone: (866) 494-4001